Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria)

Wild Indigo

Also known as: Rattleweed, Wild Black Indigo, Yellow False Indigo

Wild Indigo(Baptisia tinctoria) is an herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America. In the olden days, people made dye from this plant. It flourishes best in full sunlight and looks fantastic in a cottage garden.

Scientific classification

Species

Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Cream, Purple, Gold

Flower Color

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Wild Indigo

Attributes of Wild Indigo

Growth Rate

Wild Indigo's moderate growth rate during the summer season involves steady height increase, consistent leaf development, and blooming flowers. Observers may notice a distinct growth rhythm, with fluctuations in vegetative expansion aligning with summer's wax and wane. Its growth speed allows for hearty, balanced development, enhancing the plant's vigor without overexerting it.

Quickly Identify Wild Indigo

Trifoliate leaves like clovers, gray-green, up to 1 inch long, distinctive texture for identification.

Bright yellow pea-like flowers in erect racemes, up to 0.5 inches long, flowering from April to August.

Distinctive inflated bean pods, transitioning to ripe black, rattling when shaken, ornamental and visually striking.

Slender, smooth, green stem reaching 3 feet, slightly woody at base, herbaceous towards top, ridged texture.

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Care Guide for Wild Indigo

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wild Indigo thrives in fluctuating moisture levels, showing robust drought tolerance. It requires weekly watering to maintain vigor, but benefits from natural rain cycles, reducing supplemental watering needs during the active growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal health, wild Indigo requires balanced nutrition early in the growing season, benefiting from a high-phosphorus fertilizer. Fertilize twice yearly in spring and pre-flowering. Monitor soil fertility, as wild Indigo may be self-sufficient. Use granular or liquid fertilizer as directed to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Wild Indigo is a hardy perennial featuring bushy growth and appealing pea-like flowers. Prune in early to late spring by removing dead stems and thinning older branches for better airflow, which enhances blooming and promotes vigorous growth. Regular pruning may also boost flower production.

Propagation: Wild Indigo is a hardy perennial with vibrant blue flowers, favored by gardeners. To propagate, collect seeds after they dry, sow in well-draining soil, and keep moist. Germination requires patience and sunlight; stratification can enhance germination rates.

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